At least 21 suspected rebels have been killed in clashes throughout the area over the past two days.

Defense ministry officials say 15 rebels were killed Friday after they attacked Afghan and coalition forces in southern Uruzgan province. No military of civilian casualties were reported.

In neighboring Kandahar province, clashes between police and rebels left six militants dead. Two officers were also injured in the fighting.

Also on Friday, coalition forces say "several" Taleban rebels were killed after they attacked an Afghan and U.S.-led patrol in Helmand province. The coalition did not give a specific number of rebel deaths.